It didn’t seem that long ago that most NBA draft observers were making Shabazz Muhammad the property of the Detroit Pistons, with the number-eight draft pick.

In recent weeks, for whatever reason, Muhammad has fallen out of the top 10 in many mock drafts and the chances that he’ll be taken by the Pistons at number-eight are remote. There’s perhaps a better chance he’ll go to the Portland Trail Blazers at number 10.

Being that he’s only 6-6 for a small forward, and the fact that his athletic ability seems to be average, it’s no wonder he’s not ranked higher. But Muhammad’s outstanding performance as a freshman gave indication that he’s ready to be an impact player in the NBA. Some scouts also considered him to be a selfish player.

But that was at UCLA, Muhammad won’t have any reason to be anything but a team player when he comes to the NBA. He still put up some impressive numbers with 30.8 minutes, 17.9 points and 5.2 rebounds a game. His percentages of 44.3 percent from the floor, 37.7 in 3-pointers and 71.1 at the free throw line are decent. Good coaching will turn Muhammad around into a quality NBA player. Maurice Cheeks of the Pistons won’t let any rookie play selfish, neither would Terry Stotts of the Trail Blazers.

If the Pistons select Muhammad as the number-eight pick, it might be a surprise. But in terms of getting an outstanding player, it won’t be a surprise. Muhammad is going to be a solid NBA player for somebody. Who that will be remains anyone’s guess.